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Grape Jelly Meatballs

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๐Ÿ– A crowd-pleasing appetizer that combines sweet and tangy flavors in a deliciously simple sauce

  • Total Time: approximately 4 hours and 5 minutes
  • Yield: 4-6 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

26 ounces frozen bite-size meatballs – these are pre-cooked and save time; use beef, pork, or turkey meatballs based on preference

18 ounces grape jelly or grape jam – provides the sweet base and glossy texture for the sauce

12 ounces chili sauce – adds tang, tomato notes, and balances the sweetness

1 1/2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce – adds savory depth and umami to the sweet-tangy sauce

Instructions

First Step: Gather and prep ingredients Measure out 26 ounces of frozen bite-size meatballs, 18 ounces of grape jelly or jam, 12 ounces of chili sauce, and 1 1/2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce if using. Keep a wooden spoon or heatproof spatula nearby for stirring. If you prefer, thaw the frozen meatballs for 20 minutes to reduce cooking time slightly, but this is not required.

Second Step: Combine ingredients in the slow cooker Place all ingredients into a slow cooker and stir well to coat the meatballs evenly with the grape jelly and chili sauce. The chilled meatballs will pull in the sauce as they heat.

Third Step: Set the slow cooker and start cooking Set the slow cooker to low, cover, and cook for 3-4 hours. Stir occasionally when you check to ensure all meatballs are submerged in the sauce. Low and slow heats the meatballs through and lets flavors meld without breaking the sauce.

Fourth Step: Finish and hold for serving For serving, set the slow cooker to warm. This keeps the grape jelly meatballs at a safe serving temperature without further reducing the sauce. Garnish with chopped green onions or freshly chopped parsley to add color and a fresh bite. Serve alone as an appetizer or over rice as a main dish for 4-6 people.

Final Step: Serve and enjoy Transfer meatballs to a serving bowl or keep in the slow cooker on warm. Provide toothpicks for guests if serving as finger food. If serving over rice, spoon extra sauce over the rice for extra flavor. Leftovers store well and can be reheated gently on the stovetop or in a slow cooker.

Last Step:

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Notes

๐Ÿ– Using frozen pre-cooked meatballs makes preparation quicker, but homemade meatballs can be used for added flavor
๐Ÿณ Worcestershire sauce adds umami and is recommended but optional for extra depth of flavor
โฐ The recipe can be made ahead of time, refrigerated, and reheated when ready to serve

  • Author: Brandi Oshea
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 3-4 hours
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Slow Cooker
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 5 meatballs
  • Calories: 461
  • Sugar: 37g
  • Sodium: 683mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 11g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 53g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 17g
  • Cholesterol: 66mg